What I have learned…

         It is hard to believe that we have already come to an end for this class. I have learned a great deal on anti-bias education, and especially my personal biases and where they stem from. One hope I have when I think about working with children and families from diverse backgrounds is that I will recognize that all the people are unique in their own way. Teachers should value diversity and they need to model this attitude to their students. When people value diversity, they recognize and respect the fact that people are different and that these differences are generally a good thing. Also, as our society becomes more diverse, it is important that students learn to value and use diversity for the greater good.

          One goal I would like to set for the early childhood field related to the issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is that I will be able to implement and create a curriculum that promotes diversity so that all who enter feel welcome. This curriculum will see that all children and families, no matter their race, gender, religion, socio-economic status, etc. will be successful. Teachers must provide students with an environment that is conducive to learning. If a student feels uncomfortable, unsafe, or not respected, then their chances of success in that class dramatically decrease. I would like to give a special thanks to all of my classmates for their continued feedback on both the discussion boards as well as the blogs. There has been so much insight shared among all of us and has taught me so much on how to be a better anti-bias educator. I would also like to send a special thanks to Dr. Klein for all of her feedback and timely responses to any questions I have. It was truly a wonderful experience learning all that I have in this class and I wish you all the best of luck in all you do.

Shayla Mitchell

Creating Art

This is what came to mind when I thought back on all that I have learned throughout this course. As an anti-bias educator, I strive to promote peace, equality, and respect for all individuals. I found it most intriguing the final picture and quote by Doe Zantamata. It clearly represents all that I work hard for.

“We Don’t Say Those Words in Class!”

          There was a time when I reprimanded and silenced my own child for pointing out something she saw different. There was a “little person” in the grocery store and they were shopping as all people who go in the grocery store do. My child said as loud as she could while pointing “Why is that lady smaller than me?” I immediately shushed her and told her that it is unkind to point at others and to make comments about the way they look. I then followed up with God made all people in His own image and that he does not make any mistakes. She immediately weld up with tears and apologized for doing that. She said she never saw a person that small before, which is why she reacted that way. I told her that it was okay to ask questions about things that are different, but she should never point and talk loud about the person to make them feel uncomfortable in any way. She said “ok” and that was the end of that.